Health-related goals are popular among people with New Year’s resolutions. In the last 25 years, resolutions concerning weight, exercise, better relationships, and smoking cessation have been at the top of turn-of-the-calendar objectives for both sexes.

For many women, the path to good health is not an easy one. Procrastination, family obligations, work demands, and lack of time and energy are only a few culprits that can stop the best of health resolutions in their tracks.

But here’s a health resolution every woman should make for 2013 and commit to keeping – reducing your breast cancer risk!

“Although it’s not possible to control breast cancer risk factors related to genetics or aging, there are a number of lifestyle factors that you can control,” says Dr. Jui-Lien “Lillian” Chou, Board-Certified Radiation Oncologist, Medical Director of The Breast Center at Wellness Lubbock. “Studies have identified behaviors that can increase breast cancer risk, so eliminating those risky behaviors will have a positive affect on better health.”

Start by keeping your weight in check, particularly if you’re past menopause. Adopt a healthy diet low in fat and carbs and rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.

“Diets high in fat have been linked to breast cancer risk, so eating a low-fat diet makes sense,” Dr. Datta says. “For women who are diabetic, it is also important to properly manage blood sugar levels.”

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk for several types of cancer, so quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

“Smoking and drinking can also lead to increased risk for heart disease and stroke, so resolve now to quit,” urges Dr. Chou. There are numerous resources available to help you kick these habits, so consult with your health care provider to develop a plan to quit.

Another preventive step that decreases the risk of breast cancer is increased physical activity. Resolve to be more active and make regular exercise part of your lifestyle. Beyond reducing your risk for cancer, physical activity also increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis.

Breast Cancer Screening

Most importantly, resolve to get your annual breast cancer screening!

Early detection is key to successful cancer treatment and positive patient outcomes. The American Cancer Society issues recommendations for breast cancer screening, including annual mammograms for women over the age of 40. Those recommendations, however, are not a “one size fits all” template, cautions Dr. Chou.

The following are criteria for patients who may benefit from adding ultrasound and/or dedicated breast MRI to annual mammogram for breast cancer screening:

• Personal or family history of breast, ovarian, and/or colon cancer.

• Positive test for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation.

• Dense breast tissue

• Fibrocystic breast disease

• Breast implants

“Mammography has about a 50 percent sensitivity for breast cancer; ultrasound has a similar sensitivity. Done in conjunction, these modalities have a 75 percent sensitivity,” explains Dr. Chou. “Aurora Dedicated Breast MRI, on the other hand, is 95 percent sensitive for breast cancer.”

Complete Breast Health

Both Wellness Lubbock and Aurora Breast Center San Antonio provide a full range of breast imaging and breast cancer treatments.